For Hearthside Food Solutions, the American Bakers Association (ABA) provides not only a voice in Washington but also an opportunity to network with some of the Downers Grove, IL-based company’s biggest customers.

“ABA gives me access to all of the folks who have great brands,” noted Rich Scalise, Hearthside’s chairman and CEO as well as second vice-chairman on the association’s board. “ABA is one of the best organizations around in being close to legislation and regulations that can affect your business. It excels in having the ear and the access so we can explain the issues to legislators. I think it does it better than any other organization.

“It’s not about twisting someone’s arm,” he added. “It’s about the ability to have open dialogue with congressmen and senators about those things that really affect us and our ability to grow.”